What has been the number one challenge that has impacted you over the past year?

Embracing and responding to a significant shift in the prominence of ESG in our corporate strategy. More specifically, a combination of increased consumer awareness and regulatory intervention concerning our products’ environmental impact has required us to challenge our credentials, prosecute innovation, and partner closely with our communications team when speaking to our progress and plans. Thankfully, this is a challenge that comes with great reward in that we can support and, in some cases, lead initiatives that drive industry and community change for the better. These include greater use of renewable resources, enhanced recycling, and progress on social initiatives (such as the development and launch of our Reconciliation Action Plan – a source of great pride within my team and our broader organisation).

Looking forward, what technological advancements do you feel will impact the role of in-house legal teams in the future the most?

AI and task automation has emerged as a potent and potentially powerful means to streamline our services as in-house teams and allow us to focus on what matters most – pre-empting legal and regulatory challenges, unlocking commercial strategy and results, and fostering/maintaining compliant cultures. I see this and welcome it as a net positive for our industry, in that our ability to both add and be seen to add value will enhance.

What would you say are the unique qualities required to be successful as an in-house lawyer in your industry?

A keen interest in the macroeconomic, social and other external forces that affect our operations and our relationship with our consumers. These might include sourcing and distribution challenges, the impact of inflation on retailers and consumers alike, regulatory changes, and more. Thankfully, these are also incredibly tangible and relatable to us, personally and professionally. Aside from that, possessing curiosity, a challenger mindset, and resilience to challenges that are so often left of field and novel, are essential to success. The flip side to that challenge is the sheer diversity of work, personal stretch and commercial and social impact that lawyers in our industry are exposed to. This is more the case than ever before, as affordability of and access to essential products, with minimal environmental impact, is (rightly) an area of heightened community concern and focus.